Last year when Pentax released its super-compact interchangeable lens camera, the Q, our tests showed it sacrificed image quality for the sake of size. While the new Pentax Q10 still employs a 12.4-megapixel, backlit, 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor to stay small, Pentax says they upgraded the sensor with increased sensitivity to produce low noise at ISOs up to 6,400. Add to that an improved imaging engine under the hood and an advanced autofocus algorithm for faster AF operation, and Pentax hopes the Q10 will close the photo quality gap with its compact system competitors and widen its lead over many enthusiast digicams.

At the same time, Pentax has announced a Q-mount Pentax 06 15-45mm zoom lens and a K-mount lens adapter -- which provides access to more than 25 million lenses, according to Pentax -- to greatly expand available optics options, another previous limitation of the Q system.

Perhaps the biggest news of all is that the Pentax Q10 comes in at a lower cost (compared to the US$750 for the Pentax Q when it shipped last year). Suggested retail price -- in either silver or glossy red -- is US$600 kitted with a Pentax 02 Standard Zoom (5-15mm f/2.8-4.5). The Q10 will be available in retail and online stores in October 2012.

Another new wrinkle to the Pentax Q10 is a redesigned grip designed so the tiny camera won't slip in giant (human) hands. It also adds a distinctive look against the silver or red body.

The concurrently announced Q-Mount Pentax 06 Telephoto Zoom Lens boasts a 15-45mm range equivalent to 83-249mm -- all at f/2.8. It's also available in October 2012 at a cost of US$300.

Meanwhile, the Pentax Adapter Q allows photographers to attach any K-mount lens to a Q-system camera, with the focal length extended approximately 5.5 times. That means a 200mm lens could reach up to 1,100mm super-telephoto lengths, bringing the mountains and even stars within proverbial arms length. To prevent rolling shutter distortion, the adapter uses its own mechanical shutter to limit camera shake. An optional tripod bracket is also available to help manage longer lenses. The Adapter Q will be available in October 2012 for US$250.